How to Make Barbecue Chicken in Air Fryer

Barbecue chicken is a backyard classic, but you don’t always need a grill to enjoy it.

If you’ve got an air fryer, you can make smoky, saucy barbecue chicken right in your kitchen with less mess and quicker cook times.

In this guide, you’ll learn step by step how to make barbecue chicken in an air fryer that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Barbecue Chicken?

The air fryer is like a mini convection oven.

It circulates hot air around the chicken, which creates crispy skin while keeping the inside moist.

You’ll get a texture close to grilled chicken — without standing outside by the grill.

Plus, it’s faster and easier to clean.

If you love barbecue but don’t always want to fire up the grill, this method is a great alternative.

For another crispy twist on chicken, you can also try making BBQ fried chicken, which gives you that golden crunch with rich barbecue flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)

• Your favorite barbecue sauce

• Olive oil or cooking spray

• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder

• Optional: a little brown sugar or chili powder for extra flavor

This recipe works with skin-on or skinless chicken, but skin-on pieces get crispier in the air fryer.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Barbecue Chicken in Air Fryer

Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

This helps the seasonings stick and ensures the skin gets crisp.

Brush lightly with oil or spray both sides.

Season Well

Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. 

Sprinkle generously over the chicken pieces.

Rub the seasoning in for full coverage.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and crisp faster.

Cook the Chicken

Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket.

Don’t overcrowd — airflow is key.

Cook for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Add the Barbecue Sauce

After the initial cooking time, brush barbecue sauce over the chicken.

Return to the air fryer for another 5–8 minutes at 375°F.

The sauce will caramelize and stick beautifully.

Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Juices should run clear, and the meat should be tender.

👉 Having a meat temperature guide on hand makes this step easy.

Tools like the Easy Function Meat Temperature Magnet give quick, reliable reference points for safe and juicy results every time.

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Barbecue Chicken

• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor and juiciness.

• Sauce near the end so it doesn’t burn from the hot air circulation.

• Flip halfway to get even crispness on both sides.

• Rest before serving so juices redistribute and keep the meat moist.

If you want to explore even more ways to enjoy crispy chicken with barbecue flavor, take a look at this guide on how to make BBQ fried chicken for a crunchy variation.

Serving Ideas

Air fryer barbecue chicken pairs well with:

• Coleslaw

• Cornbread

• Baked beans

• Grilled veggies

• Potato salad

It’s also great for shredding and using in sandwiches, wraps, or tacos.

Final Thoughts

Making barbecue chicken in an air fryer is simple, fast, and delicious.

You’ll get tender meat, crispy edges, and that smoky-sweet barbecue flavor with less effort than grilling.

If you’re ready to take your barbecue chicken to the next level, check out our Easy Function BBQ accessories — click the image below to explore our full range of tools that make cooking easier, cleaner, and more fun.